The history of news media in Calgary, Alberta whether it be Calgary business news or the local gossip, is a rich tapestry that has evolved over time, mirroring the growth and development of the city itself. From humble beginnings to the digital era, the news media landscape in Calgary has witnessed significant changes, adapting to the advancements in technology and the changing needs of its audience. In this article, we will delve into the birth of news media in Calgary, explore the challenges faced and triumphs achieved along the way, and discuss the shift to digital platforms. Join me as we uncover the captivating history of news media in Calgary.
The birth of news media in Calgary, Alberta
Calgary’s news media began in the late 1800s with the arrival of the Calgary Herald, the city’s very first newspaper. It was instrumental in distributing news and information to the community, and paved the way for the growth of news media in the city, inspiring other publications to be established.
Early challenges and triumphs
The early days of news media in Calgary were not without their share of challenges. Limited resources and a small population posed hurdles for newspapers to overcome. However, these challenges were met head-on by determined journalists and publishers who were passionate about delivering news to the people of Calgary. Through their perseverance and dedication, newspapers flourished and established themselves as trusted sources of information.
One notable triumph during this period was the establishment of the Calgary Eye-Opener in 1902. This publication, known for its provocative and controversial content, quickly gained popularity among readers. The Calgary Eye-Opener challenged the status quo and sparked conversations about social and political issues, paving the way for a more diverse and vibrant news media landscape in Calgary.
Newspapers in Calgary: A Chronicle through the Ages
Calgary, a bustling city nestled in the heart of Alberta, Canada, boasts an impressively rich history of news and media outlets. The city’s newspapers, in particular, have played a pivotal role in shaping the societal fabric of Calgary, offering a unique blend of news, commentary, and satire since the 19th century. Alongside newspapers, Calgary’s media landscape is also peppered with an array of radio and TV networks, each contributing a unique perspective to the city’s ever-evolving narrative.
The Dawn of Newspapers in Calgary
In 1883, just a decade after the North West Mounted Police constructed a fort on the Bow River, the first newspaper in Calgary was established. The newspaper, called the “Calgary Herald” (also known as the “Calgary Herald, Mining and Ranche Advocate and General Advertiser”), marked the beginning of the city’s newspaper era. It arrived in Calgary by rail and was addressed to “the end of the line.”
The Evolution of The Calgary Herald
The Calgary Herald was started by Andrew Armour and Thomas Braden, who were a printer and a school teacher, respectively. They used a simple Washington hand press to produce a 4-page weekly publication in a tent near the Bow and Elbow rivers.
The Herald’s journey wasn’t always smooth sailing. After 18 months, the newspaper changed hands and was sold to Hugh S. Cayley, who later served jail time for his controversial editorial opinions. This transition marked the beginning of a new era for the Herald, which eventually morphed into the “Calgary Daily Herald” in 1885.
The Calgary Herald moved multiple times before settling into a two-story building located at what is now known as 208 8th Ave SE. This move brought an end to the era of the tent and marked the beginning of the Herald’s journey as a major newspaper in Calgary.
The Calgary Tribune and The Albertan
While the Calgary Herald was making strides in the city, another newspaper, the “Calgary Tribune,” was making its mark. Founded in 1885 by Thomas Braden, who also had a hand in the inception of the Calgary Herald, the Calgary Tribune was headquartered in the Tribune Block on Stephen Avenue.
The paper later underwent a name change to the “Alberta Tribune” and finally became the “Morning Albertan” in 1906. The Morning Albertan, a rival to the Calgary Herald, continued its publication until it was eventually replaced by the “Calgary Sun” in the 1980s.
The Calgary Sun: A New Era
The Calgary Sun, which continues to roll off the presses as a separate paper today, is a testament to the city’s vibrant newspaper history. Born out of the ashes of the Morning Albertan, the Sun has managed to keep the newspaper tradition alive in Calgary, despite the rapid digital transformation of the media landscape.
The Rise of Radio and Television
Alongside the flourishing newspaper industry, Calgary witnessed the rise of radio and television as significant players in the city’s media landscape. The city is home to 33 terrestrial radio stations, eight of which are on the AM frequency, and an impressive array of television networks.
Shaw TV, a part of Shaw Communications, is one such television network that has made significant strides in Western Canada. It broadcasts a variety of company-produced and volunteer-produced shows, all available only through subscription.
The Impact of Digital Media
In today’s digital age, traditional newspapers have had to adapt and evolve in order to stay relevant. Many of Calgary’s leading newspapers, such as the Calgary Herald and Calgary Sun, have established a strong online presence, extending their reach to a global audience.
Calgary has also seen the emergence of digital-native news platforms like the “Daily Hive,” which has become the largest online news sharing platform in Western Canada since its inception in 2016. Similarly, the Source Media Group leverages the latest innovations and content-sharing methods to increase market presence for its customers.
The Legacy of Calgary’s Newspapers
Calgary’s newspapers, both past and present, have played a crucial role in shaping the city’s history. From the Calgary Herald’s humble beginnings in a tent to the digital strides made by platforms like the Daily Hive, each newspaper has added to the Calgary conversation, helped shape the small Prairie town, and turned it into the bustling city it is today.
Newspapers continue to hold a cherished place in the heart of Calgary’s media landscape, offering an enduring platform for city dwellers to stay informed, engage in dialogue, and connect with their community. As we continue to navigate the digital age, one thing remains clear: newspapers, whether in their traditional or digital format, will continue to play a pivotal role in Calgary’s evolving narrative.
